Need AG, Chatterton BE, Walker CJ, Steurer TA, Bridges A, Nordin BE
Archives of Internal Medicine
June 1989
RCT
26 participants
Abstract
Anabolic steroids have been suggested as treatment for osteoporosis because of their protein anabolic effects. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of nandrolone decanoate in postmenopausal women with established osteoporosis.
Methodology
Twenty-six postmenopausal women with osteoporosis were randomized to receive intramuscular nandrolone decanoate 50 mg every 3 weeks or placebo for 2 years. Bone mineral density was measured at multiple sites. Biochemical markers of bone turnover were also assessed.
Results
Lumbar spine bone mineral density increased by 4.3% in the nandrolone group compared with a 2.1% decrease in controls. Total body calcium increased in the treatment group. Biochemical markers showed increased bone formation with nandrolone treatment.
Conclusions
Nandrolone decanoate appears effective in increasing bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.